Wed Mar 05 20:59:33 UTC 2025: ## US in Secret Talks with Hamas Amid Gaza Crisis
**Washington/Jerusalem** – The United States is engaged in direct talks with Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, as negotiations over a ceasefire in Gaza hang precariously, multiple sources confirmed Wednesday. These talks, first reported by Axios, mark a significant departure from US policy, given the long-standing designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization.
The White House confirmed the discussions, though Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt offered few details, citing concerns for American lives. Adam Boehler, a former Trump administration official, is reportedly involved in the negotiations.
The talks are primarily focused on securing the release of Israeli and American hostages held in Gaza, including American citizen Edan Alexander. Israel estimates that approximately 24 captives are still being held, along with the bodies of at least 35 others. A Hamas official confirmed the negotiations to AFP.
This development comes as the first phase of a January ceasefire agreement expired. Israel, having halted humanitarian aid to Gaza on Sunday, proposed extending the truce contingent on Hamas releasing more hostages, a move condemned by European powers, including France, the UK, and Germany, as a violation of international humanitarian law. These nations issued a joint statement urging Israel to restore the flow of aid.
Israel claims the new proposal, reportedly drafted by US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, requires Hamas to release half of its remaining captives in exchange for an extension and further negotiations, without offering the release of additional Palestinian prisoners, a key component of the initial agreement. Hamas has yet to publicly respond to the latest Israeli proposal. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, described as “catastrophic” by European leaders, adds urgency to the negotiations. The outcome of the US-Hamas talks remains uncertain, but their very existence signals a significant shift in the dynamics of the Gaza conflict.
First Piper 